Thread: Double Edge

I'm looking at getting a double edge and I was wondering what type of info I can get. How long the blades last etc. Thanks

Depending on beard type each blade lasts about a week to week and half. Some blades last a little longer and are a little sharper than others....whats questions constitute 'etc.' ??

Hi Flounder and welcome. Another resource for you is shavemyface.com. A lot of DE information from the great group over there. I usually get about 5 days shaves when I use a DE. I like the Feather Professional and Merkur blades the best. I also really like the old Gillette Adjustable DE's. Don't get to use them to often as I am really hooked on the straight razor and hone a bunch of razors regularly to boot. Good luck and keep the questions coming. Lynn

The double edge razors are fun too. I typically use them weekday mornings when in more of a rush to do the upward passes on my neck (straight razor for everything else guys, no worries <g>).

I have a few older models and a few of the new Merkur razors. A light touch is mandatory, no pressure, just the weight of the razor.

I think Joe Learch is our resident DE expert here and will surely drop in this thread soon.

Tonhy

Flounder,

I typically changed my DE blades every Sunday. As far as blades go
the Feather and Merkur are probably your best bet, though I only
used Merkur myself. You should avoid the Gillette blades, a lot
of guys in the other forums give them really bad reviews.

Once you learn to properly use the DE you will get outstanding
shaves. I would still be using mine but the straight bug bit me
and I haven't been the same since.


Regards,


Terry

I use a DE to shave my head. It's a Merkur Vision. I used to use it for the face but now I use a straight for that.

It is on the heavy side and I find its weight was great when shaving a vertical surface but on the head I have to give it a little lift when shaving the top or get scalped.

On the face the blade would last almost a week but would be a bit dull towards the end. For the head I actually prefer a duller blade, less nicks, so change it only about once a month.

I liked the feather blades for it when I used it on my face. I found them to be a bit sharper than Merkur but not by much. The only thing better than a DE for me is a straight.

Flounder,

Weren't you in Animal House? The life of the blade depends on your beard. A heavy, thick beard may require changing after 3 shaves. I change my blades every Sunday, whether I need to or not. With the price of DE blades so inexpensive, why risk irritating your face? You'll know it's time when the blade begins to pull or feels uncomfortable. I currently have a Merkur HD Classic, Progress and today purchased a Merkur Slant. If you are looking at a new razor, I would suggest the Progress. I used to recommend the HD, but with the Progress you can start off at a setting of 1 and work your way up to more blade exposure. I won't go into any more detail since this is first and foremost a straight razor forum, and who wants to piss off a bunch of guys with straight razors? Lynn suggested checking out ShaveMyFace. Also check out BadgerandBlade.

Lots of good info at those sites, or PM me with any questions.

RT

Randy,
My we share the same tastes <g>. Another multiple Merkur owner. I am almost ashamed to say all the models I own. Merkur Heavy Classic, Heavy Slant and Heavy Open Comb, a Progress and a Futur. There is a 1907 Classic on the way too.

Great fun and most are cheaper than straights <g>. For blades I have Feathers, Merkurs and really cheap ones from Eckard Drug. My face has yet to see a difference.

Tony

Tony,

I failed to mention my long handled open comb. I also have the Merkur, Feather and Personna (it's what you are really getting at Eckerd Drugs if it is the white dispenser). Wal Mart sells their DE blades at $1.36 for 10. Most Super Wal Marts offer Florida Water, in the fancy soap section.

RT

Randy,
Okay Randy, I'll see your long handle Merkur and raise you the 1907 in both open comb and safety bar......so there !!! <g>

As for blades, it's the white package from Eckard. Hmm, Floida Water, another favorite now gone from Walgreens. I will try a Super Walmart for it.

Tony